The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 17

I’ve Been Fired from My Church Position—Now What?

In Episode 17 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker addresses one of the toughest realities in church music leadership: I’ve Been Fired from My Church Position—Now What? Learn how to respond with professionalism, protect your future, and move forward after an unexpected termination. This week’s listener question discusses strategies for dealing with negativity in a choral ensemble. Today’s inspiration features Samuel Barber’s powerful* Agnus Dei*, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Tune in for an honest, practical, and encouraging conversation about resilience in the choral profession.

The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 6

The Language of Spirituals

In Episode 6 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William O. Baker explores The Language of Spirituals in the African American tradition, shedding light on the cultural and musical significance of these powerful works.

This week’s listener question addresses the perennial debate: Should choral directors use a baton? Finally, today’s inspiration is Alice Parker’s beautiful arrangement of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” performed by The William Baker Festival Singers of Atlanta from their 2015 album Voice of Singing. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion and a moving celebration of choral artistry!

The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 5

Prescriptive Choral Training

This week on The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William O. Baker welcomes Dr. Jamea J. Sale, Director of the Institute for Healthy Singing and Voice Research, for a special discussion on Prescriptive Choral Training. Learn how this approach moves beyond traditional warm-ups, incorporating voice science, body mapping, and kinetic movement to optimize vocal performance and ensemble cohesion. This week’s listener question explores the best devices for recording rehearsals, and today’s inspiration features Moses Hogan’s powerful spiritual “I’m Gonna Sing Till the Spirit Moves in My Heart” performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for a thought-provoking and practical episode!

The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 3

Professionalism in Choral Music

In this week’s episode of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host William Baker reflects on the meaning of “Professionalism in choral music.” Explore the nuances of volunteer versus paid ensembles and discover why dedication, artistry, and commitment define a professional chorus, regardless of compensation. This week’s listener question tackles the practice of anonymous auditions, while today’s inspiration features the breathtaking “Dona Nobis Pacem” from Bach’s Mass in B Minor, performed by the Robert Shaw Chorale. Join us for thought-provoking insights and a celebration of choral excellence!

The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 2

Conducting a More Effective Audition

In the second episode of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host William Baker dives into "Conducting a More Effective Audition." Learn actionable strategies to streamline the audition process, prioritize your ensemble's needs, and ensure a respectful experience for all candidates. This week’s listener question addresses a challenging leadership scenario in a community chorus, while the episode concludes with Kenneth Jennings’ uplifting “All You Works of the Lord,” performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Tune in to refine your choral leadership and celebrate the joy of music-making!

The Choir Director's Toolbox: Episode 1

Five Steps To Creating A Rehearsal Event

Kick off 2025 with the inaugural episode of The Choral Director’s Toolbox!

In this debut episode, host Dr. William O. Baker explores “Five Steps to Making Each Rehearsal a Special Occasion,” offering practical strategies to transform rehearsals into meaningful and productive experiences. Discover the “toolbox” approach to choral leadership in response to a listener question, and enjoy a stunning performance of Alexandre Kopylov’s “Heavenly Light” by the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers. Join us as we celebrate the art of choral music and inspire excellence in every rehearsal!